Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering - Degree Apprenticeship - BEng (Hons)

2024/25 Part-time Undergraduate course

Award:

Bachelor of Engineering with Honours

Faculty:

Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment

School:

School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems

Campus:

Derry~Londonderry campus

Start date:

September 2024

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

We are passionate about sharing with our students the vital role they each have now and as future professionals in promoting a sustainable future for all. We believe that sustainability is not the domain of one discipline or profession. It is the responsibility of all disciplines, professions, organisations and individuals.

That is why on each of our courses within the School of Computing, Engineering and Intelligent Systems you will learn about the UN Sustainable Development Goals and the contribution you can make now, and as a graduate in Computing or Engineering.

Read the course details below to find out more.

Overview

Take your natural curiosity, combine it with your interest in Maths, Science or Technology and use your imagination to design and build the future.

Summary

There is no product that exists in the world that has not been engineered – from the smallest computer chips using nanotechnology to the biggest structures, such as bridges and the world’s tallest buildings. All engineering comes down to one thing and that is the need to solve a problem – how can I make it better? How can I make it more useful? Mechanical and Manufacturing engineering concentrates on the design and manufacture of machines, from the smallest parts to large systems, covering industries as diverse as automotive, aerospace and medical. So if you have ever wondered how you can make an F1 racing car go faster or how we can design and build the next generation of space exploration, then mechanical and manufacturing engineering is for you.

We’d love to hear from you!

We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.

Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:

  • Course specific information
  • Fees and Finance
  • Admissions

For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.

For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.

We look forward to hearing from you.

About this course

About

This is the part time version of the BEng Hons Mechanical and Manufacturing course. Graduates from the programme are equipped to enter a variety of mechanical engineering areas, such as; design and consultancy, materials technology, process engineering and maintenance and particularly manufacturing and project management. The course places an emphasis on individual and team projects providing the opportunity for hands-on involvement and an understanding of engineering materials, processes, devices and systems. Analytical and communication skills are developed with an emphasis on computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided manufacture (CAM). The skills and knowledge acquired are applied to a wide range of real-life engineering problems.

This course is currently in the process of renewing its Professional Body Accreditation. It is possible that there will be some changes to the course as described.

Attendance

Attendance for the first year is accelerated to be equivalent to the full-time program timetable over the first two semesters; hence, first-year attendance is typically up to four days per week. Attendance in years two, three, and four is part-time and typically requires one full day or two half days per week per semester. Each semester consists of twelve teaching weeks followed by a study week and two weeks for final examination (fifteen weeks in total). A final exam will be scheduled to take place on a specific day, with a maximum of three exams possible in any given semester. Not all modules have a final exam, as assessment can also take place during the teaching and study weeks. The attendance requirements may vary from semester to semester.

Start dates

  • September 2024

Teaching, Learning and Assessment

Formal lectures are supplemented by tutorials and laboratory investigations, as appropriate. Practical hands on laboratory sessions are an integral part of many modules throughout all years of the course. Case studies, groupwork and mini-projects are also extensively used. In the final year there is a major individual project.

Generally, a combination of continuous assessment and examination is employed in each module. Continuous assessment includes class tests, library and laboratory based assignments, and individual and group project work. Some modules across all years of the course are continuously assessed.

Teaching, learning and assessment

The content for each course is summarised on the relevant course page, along with an overview of the modules that make up the course.

Each course is approved by the University and meets the expectations of:

Attendance and Independent Study

As part of your course induction, you will be provided with details of the organisation and management of the course, including attendance and assessment requirements - usually in the form of a timetable. For full-time courses, the precise timetable for each semester is not confirmed until close to the start date and may be subject to some change in the early weeks as all courses settle into their planned patterns. For part-time courses which require attendance on particular days and times, an expectation of the days and periods of attendance will be included in the letter of offer. A course handbook is also made available.

Courses comprise modules for which the notional effort involved is indicated by its credit rating. Each credit point represents 10 hours of student effort. Undergraduate courses typically contain 10, 20, or 40 credit modules (more usually 20) and postgraduate courses typically 15 or 30 credit modules.

The normal study load expectation for an undergraduate full-time course of study in the standard academic year is 120 credit points. This amounts to around 36-42 hours of expected teaching and learning per week, inclusive of attendance requirements for lectures, seminars, tutorials, practical work, fieldwork or other scheduled classes, private study, and assessment. Teaching and learning activities will be in-person and/or online depending on the nature of the course. Part-time study load is the same as full-time pro-rata, with each credit point representing 10 hours of student effort.

Postgraduate Master’s courses typically comprise 180 credits, taken in three semesters when studied full-time. A Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert) comprises 60 credits and can usually be completed on a part-time basis in one year. A 120-credit Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) can usually be completed on a part-time basis in two years.

Class contact times vary by course and type of module. Typically, for a module predominantly delivered through lectures you can expect at least 3 contact hours per week (lectures/seminars/tutorials). Laboratory classes often require a greater intensity of attendance in blocks. Some modules may combine lecture and laboratory. The precise model will depend on the course you apply for and may be subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. Prospective students will be consulted about any significant changes.

Assessment

Assessment methods vary and are defined explicitly in each module. Assessment can be a combination of examination and coursework but may also be only one of these methods. Assessment is designed to assess your achievement of the module’s stated learning outcomes.  You can expect to receive timely feedback on all coursework assessments. This feedback may be issued individually and/or issued to the group and you will be encouraged to act on this feedback for your own development.

Coursework can take many forms, for example: essay, report, seminar paper, test, presentation, dissertation, design, artefacts, portfolio, journal, group work. The precise form and combination of assessment will depend on the course you apply for and the module. Details will be made available in advance through induction, the course handbook, the module specification, the assessment timetable and the assessment brief. The details are subject to change from year to year for quality or enhancement reasons. You will be consulted about any significant changes.

Normally, a module will have 4 learning outcomes, and no more than 2 items of assessment. An item of assessment can comprise more than one task. The notional workload and the equivalence across types of assessment is standardised. The module pass mark for undergraduate courses is 40%. The module pass mark for postgraduate courses is 50%.

Calculation of the Final Award

The class of Honours awarded in Bachelor’s degrees is usually determined by calculation of an aggregate mark based on performance across the modules at Levels 5 and 6, (which correspond to the second and third year of full-time attendance).

Level 6 modules contribute 70% of the aggregate mark and Level 5 contributes 30% to the calculation of the class of the award. Classification of integrated Master’s degrees with Honours include a Level 7 component. The calculation in this case is: 50% Level 7, 30% Level 6, 20% Level 5. At least half the Level 5 modules must be studied at the University for Level 5 to be included in the calculation of the class.

All other qualifications have an overall grade determined by results in modules from the final level of study. In Master’s degrees of more than 200 credit points the final 120 points usually determine the overall grading.

Figures correct for academic year 2022-2023.

Academic profile

The University employs over 1,000 suitably qualified and experienced academic staff - 60% have PhDs in their subject field and many have professional body recognition.

Courses are taught by staff who are Professors (19%), Readers, Senior Lecturers (22%) or Lecturers (57%).

We require most academic staff to be qualified to teach in higher education: 82% hold either Postgraduate Certificates in Higher Education Practice or higher. Most academic and learning support staff (85%) are recognised as fellows of the Higher Education Academy (HEA) by Advance HE - the university sector professional body for teaching and learning. Many academic and technical staff hold other professional body designations related to their subject or scholarly practice.

The profiles of many academic staff can be found on the University’s departmental websites and give a detailed insight into the range of staffing and expertise.  The precise staffing for a course will depend on the department(s) involved and the availability and management of staff.  This is subject to change annually and is confirmed in the timetable issued at the start of the course.

Occasionally, teaching may be supplemented by suitably qualified part-time staff (usually qualified researchers) and specialist guest lecturers. In these cases, all staff are inducted, mostly through our staff development programme ‘First Steps to Teaching’. In some cases, usually for provision in one of our out-centres, Recognised University Teachers are involved, supported by the University in suitable professional development for teaching.

Figures correct for academic year 2022-2023.

Modules

Here is a guide to the subjects studied on this course.

Courses are continually reviewed to take advantage of new teaching approaches and developments in research, industry and the professions. Please be aware that modules may change for your year of entry. The exact modules available and their order may vary depending on course updates, staff availability, timetabling and student demand. Please contact the course team for the most up to date module list.

Year one

Mathematics for Engineering I

Year: 1

This module provides students with a solid foundation in the fundamental topics in engineering mathematics. The material develops the student's competencies in the essential mathematics that forms an integral part of an undergraduate honours degree in engineering related disciplines.

Design and CAD I

Year: 1

This module includes freehand sketching, systems of projection, drawing conventions,
dimensioning and tolerancing, 3-D digital modelling of parts and assemblies, design
documentation, an introduction to the total design activity, formulation of a product design
specification (PDS), material selection and manufacturing considerations in design

Year two

Mathematics for Engineering II

Year: 2

This module introduces students to the essential mathematics with appropriate numerical computing and programming required for embarking on further study in engineering or a related discipline. It develops the students mathematical skills required to solve problems that arise in the context of their undergraduate study. The module content is introduced in a pragmatic way and then related to real world problems, which enhances understanding and makes the concepts more meaningful and relevant for the student. The module also aims to generate in the student a spirit of mathematical investigation and discovery leading to the development of mathematical confidence. An introduction is given to MatLab, the multi-paradigm numerical computing environment and fourth-generation programming language; assessment in also partially completed in MatLab.

Professional Development

Year: 2

This module is designed to equip students with the appropriate research and transferable skills needed to secure employment within the Computing and Engineering domain.

The module prepares students for professional work by developing knowledge of the responsibilities and obligations of employees, employers and clients as determined by codes of professional conduct. Students will have the opportunity to practise the presentation of themselves in, for example, application forms, curriculum vitae, interview, elevator pitches and aptitude tests.

The module provides an underpinning foundation of research concepts, methods and techniques necessary for project development and delivery. The students employ research skills developed during the module to gather research from a variety of sources and critically review this literature. Embedded in all these activities is the reinforcement of the need for adhering to recognised ethical standards and taking a professional approach to employability.

Introduction to Renewable Energy

Year: 2

The module provides a firm grounding in energy conversion through fundamental theory demonstrated in the analysis of conventional and renewable energy conversion systems.

Manufacturing Processes

Year: 2

A module which integrates formal study with a significant practical programme for the understanding and application of common manufacturing processes.

Materials

Year: 2

The module provides a general coverage of different classes of engineering materials. Metallic and non-metallic materials are studied with respect to structures, properties, and processing.

Statics and Dynamics II

Year: 2

MEC360 provides an extension of the fundamental principles of the statics and dynamics of mechanical systems in relation to the analysis and solution of mechanical engineering problems. Furthermore, MEC360 provides an introduction to the core principles of thermodynamics.

Manufacturing Technology

Year: 2

This module covers major aspects of manufacturing technology including state-of-the-art for subtractive, additive, casting, and deformation processes. In addition, the module covers the technologies implemented in the integration of various manufacturing processes, thereby promoting a comprehensive understanding of manufacturing systems.

Year three

Circuit Analysis I

Year: 3

This module provides an introduction to the key electronic components, the basic concepts of electronic circuit design and the basic principles of electronic circuit testing and measurement taking. This module introduces the student to analogue electronics principles presented using a combination of lectures, tutorials and practical laboratories and are assessed using continuous assessment in the form of a class test and lab practical assessments.

Industry 4.0

Year: 3

This module advances the understanding of Internet of Things in an Industrial context as Industry 4.0, encapsulating the trends and technologies that are transforming the way manufacturing and production operations manage their processes. Its focuses on how data is produced, stored, processed, analysed, and exchanged between operational systems inside industrial plants and in the cloud. The elements of the module are presented through lectures, tutorials and practical sessions and are assessed using continuous assessment methods.

Intro to Statics and Dynamics

Year: 3

MEC102 provides the fundamental principles of statics, strength of materials and dynamics in relation to mechanical engineering and provides a methodology for their practical application. Its content includes:

(a) Basic and derived units, static equilibrium, shear forces, bending moments and friction.

(b) Statically stressed systems both determinate and indeterminate, the theory of torsion and bending.

(c) This module provides an understanding of dynamics, and its application to the solution of engineering problems.

(d) The theoretical and practical principles required within each topic area will be developed in lectures and applied in assignments, tests and tutorials.

Design and CAE 2

Year: 3

The module considers creativity in design; product innovation; technical and non-technical
aspects of design; safety and product liability; design analysis techniques for economic
product manufacture and assembly; functional analysis; value engineering; safety and
reliability through design projects; manufacturing processes; assembly techniques; material
handling methods; component and product inspection and testing; factory simulation using
computer techniques; computer database application for manufacturing management and
processing; and design applications using 3-D computer graphics

Mechanical Science

Year: 3

This module will permit the student to develop their understanding in the scientific and mathematical principles that underpin three areas of mechanical sciences: Strength of Materials and Mechanical vibration theory.

Formal lectures, directed reading exercises, tutorial sessions, informal class quizzes, peer discussion groups, and practical computer laboratory demonstrations will form the learning activities that will lead to the intended learning outcomes.

Learning outcomes shall be assessed by formal in-class test methods throughout the duration of the module and by a final formal examination.

Engineering of Control Systems and Signals

Year: 3

This module is optional

This level 5 module will endow engineering students with the knowledge and skills to analyse and design control systems and signal processing systems.

Year four

Final Year Project

Year: 4

Students are required to undertake a major project during the final year of the course. The module offers students an opportunity to develop a realistic and meaningful piece of work during their final year. This module allows a chosen subject area to be researched in depth and a solution developed as a consequence. Students will have the opportunity to integrate and apply the learning achieved from other modules in the course. The module runs during both semesters and allows students to develop a comprehensive approach to all aspects of working on a large project. The project encourages innovation and creative thinking in the development of the solution. It also develops the entrepreneurial mindset, which can influence the challenges undertaken and final decisions made.

Design and CAE 3

Year: 4

This module is based on the execution of an industrially generated major design project
through multi-disciplinary team activity involving aspects of: project management, market
analysis, specification, concept design, budget costing, decision making, detail design,
production planning, manufacturing requirements and product costing.

Computer Aided Engineering

Year: 4

This module provides a practical, hands-on treatment of Computer Aided Engineering in the
context of application in design practice or manufacturing company. It majors on the more
advanced part modelling techniques, assembly modelling, good modelling practice,
collaboration and interoperabilty, design documentation, 3D printing, surface modelling
rendering, mechanism simulation and Finite Element Analysis. It involves the utilisation of an
integrated, state-of-the-art MCAD suite along with the teaching of the general principles of
these technologies.

Standard entry conditions

We recognise a range of qualifications for admission to our courses. In addition to the specific entry conditions for this course you must also meet the University’s General Entrance Requirements.

A level

For the Degree apprenticeship you must be in full-time employment in an engineering capacity regarded as satisfying the industrial training requirements of the equivalent full-time courses. You must also be part of the company as a Degree Apprentice under the Department of Economy Higher Level Apprenticeship programme.

THE INITIAL CLOSING DATE FOR RECEIPT OF APPLICATIONS FOR THIS COURSE IS 31 MARCH 2024.

Grades BBBto include ONE from GCE A Level Chemistry, Technology and Design, Design and Technology, Double Award Life and Health Sciences, Double Award Science/Applied Science, Engineering, Electronics or Environmental Technology

Desirable Subject Offer: BCC

For applicants offering Maths, Further Maths or Physics in GCE A Level, a two grade reduction will be applied.

Please check the GCSE requirements below for entry to this course.

Applied General Qualifications

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma in Engineering (601/7588/6) with overall award profile of DDMto include Merit in Engineering Principles and Merit in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.

A Levels with;
RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate (601/7584/9) Note: The RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Engineering will satisfy the subject requirement as long as it includes Merit in Engineering Principles. Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems is NOT required.

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma (601/7580/1) Note: The RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma in Engineering will satisfy the subject requirement as long as it includes Merit in Engineering Principles and Merit in Calculus to Solve Engineering Problems.

RQF Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma does not satisfy the subject requirement for this course and will only be considered when presented with an A Level in one of the specified subjects.

The A level(s) and/or the BTEC qualification(s) must be in the specified subject(s) and must have the required modules.

OCR Nationals and Cambridge Technical Combinations
These qualifications do not satisfy the subject entry requirement for this course and will be accepted as grade only when presented with A levels in the relevant subject(s).

To find out if the qualification you are applying with is a qualification we accept for entry, please check our Qualification Checker - https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/equivalence

We will also continue to accept QCF versions of these qualifications although grades asked for may differ. Check what grades you will be asked for by comparing the requirements above with the information under QCF in the Applied General and Tech Level Qualifications section of our Entry Requirements -

https://www.ulster.ac.uk/study/entrance-requirements/undergraduate-entry-requirements

​​Entry equivalences can also be viewed in the online prospectus at http://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements/equivalence.

Irish Leaving Certificate

120 UCAS Tariff points to include a minimum of five subjects (four of which must be at Higher Level) to include English at H6 if studied at Higher Level or O4 if studied at Ordinary Level.

Course Specific Subject Requirements

Higher Level subjects must include Mathematics and one from Physics, Chemistry, Physics/Chemistry, Biology, Technology or Engineering, Technology & Design.

Irish Leaving Certificate UCAS Equivalency

Access to Higher Education (HE)

Access Diploma

Overall profile of 65% (120 credit Science/Technology Access Course) (NI Access Course); to include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 55% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics passed at 55% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.

Overall profile of 24 credits at distinction and 21credits at merit (60 credit Science/Technology Access Course) (GB Access Course); to include a 20 credit Level 2 Mathematics module, passed at 65% or successful completion of NICATS Mathematics passed at 65% as part of the pre-2021 Access Diploma.

NBApplication of Number Level 2 is not acceptable as an alternative to GCSE Grade C Mathematics for entry to this course.

PLUS GCSE English Grade C or Essential Skills Communication Level 2 or Communication Module (Level 2) in Access programme

GCSE

GCSE (or equivalent) - Grade C or above in English

GCSE (or equivalent) - Grade B or above in Mathematics

Essential Skills in Application of Number is not acceptable for entry to this degree.

English Language Requirements

English language requirements for international applicants
The minimum requirement for this course is Academic IELTS 6.0 with no band score less than 5.5. Trinity ISE: Pass at level III also meets this requirement for Tier 4 visa purposes.

Ulster recognises a number of other English language tests and comparable IELTS equivalent scores.

Additional Entry Requirements

OCR/Cambridge Technical Combinations
The University accepts a range of alternative combination of qualifications including OCR Nationals and OCR Cambridge Technicals. However these qualifications do not satisfy the subject requirements for this course but can be used for grade purposes in combination with BTec/A-level subjects which meet the subject requirements (see above for more information).

HNC in Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject
Overall Distinction (with distinctions in 90 Level 4 credits) for year 1 entry only

HNDin Electrical, Electronic, Manufacturing or Mechanical Engineering subject

Overall Merit (with distinctions in 60 Level 5 credits)

HND applications may be considered for Year 2 entry where the curriculum sufficiently matches that of the Ulster University full - time Year 1 course.

Foundation Degree
Pass in a relevant subject with overall 55% and minimum 55% in all taught level 5 modules. Applicants will normally be considered for entry to an associated Honours degree (normally Year 2 entry).

For further information regarding all of the above qualifications please contact Admissions -see contact details below.

Entry equivalences can also be viewed in the online prospectus at http://www.ulster.ac.uk/apply/entrance-requirements/equivalence

Exemptions and transferability

Transfer between this course and other similar courses within the Faculty of Computing, Engineering and the Built Environment may be possible on the basis of academic performance.

Exemption from parts of the course may be considered based on appropriate performance in a related, designated course or other approved experiential learning (APEL).

The course has been designed to enable students who graduate with a good honours degree to apply for postgraduate study towards a PhD, MSc, MRes or other higher qualification.

Careers & opportunities

Career options

Job prospects in a wide range of engineering industries are excellent with the majority of graduates finding employment within six months of graduation. Graduates with BEng Hons, first class or upper second class award all satisfy the requirements for a wide range of postgraduate research posts and scholarships.

Work placement / study abroad

Part-time mode of study normally does not involve a work placement.

Professional recognition

Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE)

Accredited by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) on behalf of the Engineering Council for the purposes of fully meeting the academic requirement for registration as an Incorporated Engineer and partially meeting the academic requirement for registration as a Chartered Engineer.

Apply

Start dates

  • September 2024

Fees and funding

2024/25 Fees

Fees for entry in 2024/25 have not yet been set. See our tuition fees page for the current fees for 2023/24 entry.

Additional mandatory costs

It is important to remember that costs associated with accommodation, travel (including car parking charges) and normal living will need to be covered in addition to tuition fees.

Where a course has additional mandatory expenses (in addition to tuition fees) we make every effort to highlight them above. We aim to provide students with the learning materials needed to support their studies. Our libraries are a valuable resource with an extensive collection of books and journals, as well as first-class facilities and IT equipment. Computer suites and free Wi-Fi are also available on each of the campuses.

There are additional fees for graduation ceremonies, examination resits and library fines.

Students choosing a period of paid work placement or study abroad as a part of their course should be aware that there may be additional travel and living costs, as well as tuition fees.

See the tuition fees on our student guide for most up to date costs.

Contact

We’d love to hear from you!

We know that choosing to study at university is a big decision, and you may not always be able to find the information you need online.

Please contact Ulster University with any queries or questions you might have about:

  • Course specific information
  • Fees and Finance
  • Admissions

For any queries regarding getting help with your application, please select Admissions in the drop down below.

For queries related to course content, including modules and placements, please select Course specific information.

We look forward to hearing from you.


For more information visit

Disclaimer

  1. Although reasonable steps are taken to provide the programmes and services described, the University cannot guarantee the provision of any course or facility and the University may make variations to the contents or methods of delivery of courses, discontinue, merge or combine courses and introduce new courses if such action is reasonably considered to be necessary by the University. Such circumstances include (but are not limited to) industrial action, lack of demand, departure of key staff, changes in legislation or government policy including changes, if any, resulting from the UK departing the European Union, withdrawal or reduction of funding or other circumstances beyond the University’s reasonable control.
  1. If the University discontinues any courses, it will use its best endeavours to provide a suitable alternative course. In addition, courses may change during the course of study and in such circumstances the University will normally undertake a consultation process prior to any such changes being introduced and seek to ensure that no student is unreasonably prejudiced as a consequence of any such change.
  1. The University does not accept responsibility (other than through the negligence of the University, its staff or agents), for the consequences of any modification or cancellation of any course, or part of a course, offered by the University but will take into consideration the effects on individual students and seek to minimise the impact of such effects where reasonably practicable.
  1. The University cannot accept any liability for disruption to its provision of educational or other services caused by circumstances beyond its control, but the University will take all reasonable steps to minimise the resultant disruption to such services.